DOGS in Swindon are to be the subject of a council report in April.

The report is being prepared in response to dog attacks on children across the country.

Cabinet member for environment David Wren told a full council meeting last night that while most of the attacks had occurred in the children's own homes, he wanted to make sure the borough's dog laws were up to scratch.

His comments came during a debate on a motion put forward by Penhill councillor David Glaholm calling for dogs to be kept on leashes in public places.

In the light of the report already being prepared, Coun Wren said the motion was redundant.

Coun Wren said he shared Coun Glaholm's concerns but argued that most dog owners behave responsibly.

"There need to be put in place controls to protect the public without restricting the activities of dog owners," said Coun Wren.

"I have already asked for a report on dog control orders for April this year.

"I must stress a reasoned response to this issue."

Coun Glaholm said he was happy to withdraw his motion calling for a council debate.

But he called on the Tory administration to include their Labour opposite numbers in any debate over public issues.